A much-beloved travel destination, Bali, also known as the “Island of Gods”, is grappling with the challenges of preserving its unique culture and environment amidst a surge in tourism. With its economy primarily benefiting from tourism, the region's local authorities have implemented new measures to ensure the sustainability of the industry.
In light of increasing instances of disruptive behavior by tourists, Governor Wayan Koster last month mandated a list of dos and don’ts to be affixed onto visitor passports. Examples of such disturbances include a German woman undressing outside a temple in Ubud town, and an American man vandalizing a Balinese police vehicle. Such actions have resulted in the deportation of at least 136 foreigners this year alone.
Starting 2024, a new measure will come into play. The province plans to levy a fee from all out-of-country visitors, approximately $10 per person. The proceeds from this fee will be directed towards environmental and cultural preservation, helping maintain Bali's iconic landscapes and traditions. This step is intended to discourage unruly behavior and encourage respect towards the island's cultural norms and regulations.
In 2022, Bali reopened its borders to international visitors and saw a nearly four-fold increase in tourism, with 439,475 visitors reported as of May. However, with the reopening, instances of tourists violating societal norms, including public brawling and inappropriate sexual behavior, have escalated. In response, the local government banned tourists from renting motorcycles due to frequent traffic violations.
This isn't the first time a region has implemented a tourist tax. In 2023, Malaysia resumed charging a 10 ringgit ($2) per night tourist tax, while Bhutan has enforced a fee of $200 per night since the previous year. These fees were justified on the grounds of tourism strain on the respective countries' infrastructures.
Although some local businesses express concerns that the forthcoming electronic tourist tax may deter visitors, Governor Koster is confident that the minor fee will not negatively impact Bali’s booming tourism industry. After all, Bali continues to rank high on lists of stunning travel destinations worldwide, renowned for its beautiful beaches, mystical temples, lush vegetation, picturesque lakes, and rich culture. The new regulations are seen as a necessary step towards ensuring that Bali's beauty and traditions are preserved for generations to come.
